You might think life is about doing the right thing, but is it?
So often we are quick to say what we ought to do, but have you ever spent much time thinking about why you are doing good things.
When I wrote my undergrad thesis, I stumbled upon some research that indicated something very interesting. They hypothesized that, by and large, everyone sought to do the good thing. What they found said otherwise.
The people who believed themselves to be good, were motivated to do what they perceived to be good.
The people who believed themselves to be bad, were motivated to do what they perceived to be bad.
When one did the opposite, a negative emotion arose and they would be filled with angst and uncertainty.
The choices you make, paired with what you experience, reinforce what you believe about yourself and reality. These beliefs shape your perceived identity. That perceived identity motivates your behavior and colors your experiences.
When we are trying to cause change in ourselves or others, remember these things:
- If you want to convert behavior, you need to change self-perception.
- If you want to convert self-perception, you need to change beliefs about yourself, reality, and others.
- If you want to convert beliefs, you need to make different choices and experience different things.
As a Catholic Life Coach, I coach individuals to know and remain steadfast to their values so they can endure change and grow. It is possible to attain a life of freedom, peace, and faithfulness by coming to a deeper understanding of who you are, who God is, and what your values are.
To connect with Matthew Jandernoa, visit his directory profile at
https://www.catholiclifecoaches.com/matthew-jandernoa
- Virtue in the Modern World - July 17, 2025
- What Is More Important, Identity or Behavior? - August 1, 2024
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